Metallurgical or materials technician​

Metallurgical or materials technicians research, analyse, control and develop processes used in extracting minerals from ore (rock) for refining metals.

Where metallurgical or materials technicians are employed

Metallurgists work at mines, mineral processing sites, laboratories, research centres or offices. They usually work with other professionals such as mining or construction engineers, geologists, mineralogists, technicians and tradespeople.

"The most satisfying outcome from all this work has been the fact that I have worked on projects that have delivered real outcomes for society. Each day I get the opportunity to make a positive difference in the world" -Dr Drew Evans, Materials Science and Nanotechnology.

Pay

Full-time metallurgical or materials technicians in South Australia generally earn more than $1,600 per week.

Job prospects

In 2011 there were 239 people employed full-time as metallurgical or materials technicians in South Australia, compared with 191 in 2006.

How to become one

To become a metallurgist you usually have to complete a degree in metallurgical or chemical engineering, or science with a major in metallurgy. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

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